Your How-To Guide on Studying Abroad!
Congratulations! You've come to the right spot, or more precisely, the correct page. It's a given that you want to study abroad, and we admire you for conducting your homework by reviewing blog posts. We understand that the entire process of studying abroad can be scary for some since few people are aware of all the procedures and preparations that go into launching your studies overseas after graduation.
First off, let’s address the elephant in the room - Is it the ideal time for you to study abroad?
Quiz: Is studying abroad right for you?
Give yourself an honest "thumbs up" or "thumbs down" on whether you agree or disagree with the following statements:
- I thrive on difficulties, and the greater the number, the better.
- I like meeting new people and getting to know them.
- I like discovering new locations, tastes, and cultures.
- I get along with a wide range of personalities, including ones that others find challenging.
- I thrive on variety and am content to be encircled by it.
- Taking measured risks is something I like doing.
- Things that appear weird or strange don't disturb me.
- I'm not bothered about being alone.
- I consistently go the additional mile without being asked.
- When I'm asked to step outside of my comfort zone, I flourish.
- What makes the planet go round intrigues me.
- I can change my mind.
- I am a terrific communicator and listener.
- I enjoy working in groups.
- I'm capable of dealing with failure and learning from it.
Scoring:
If you responded yes to 12 of the 15 questions, you may have a great future on the world stage ahead of you. If you replied yes to 10 out of 15 questions, you have the makings of a good internationalist, as well as a roadmap to where you need to improve. If you answered yes to more than half of the questions, you should really consider what type of study abroad program would best fulfill your goals and help you grow. If you responded yes to less than five questions, you should think about why you want to study abroad and possibly take some extra preparation so you can adapt to your new surroundings.
However, just because your score is poor doesn't imply you shouldn't study abroad. Although, it does imply that you should analyze the course and your targeted goals carefully. The actual key to a good study abroad experience is studying, then integrating that learning into your personal development and applying it to your professional self. Also, bear in mind that scores on tests like this one can alter over time, especially if a person's route through life is shaped by real-world experiences. The fact that you're reading this guide demonstrates a level of interest that can be nurtured!
This is our in-depth and easy-to-understand guide to pursuing higher studies from overseas nations. We'll walk you through each stage, and by the conclusion, you'll have the majority — if not all — of the knowledge, you require in order to make preparations for an overseas study adventure.
Step 1: Plan your preferred country and course
In terms of educational environments, countries differ. Choose the country that offers you the most opportunities. Don't make your decision based on the weather or the views. Keep in mind that this is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; you don't want to squander it by making rash decisions. Consult with friends who have already studied overseas. Compare the many alternatives. Then, select the university that best meets your educational objectives, has superior resources, facilities, and materials, and provides the programs you want to pursue.
Step 2: Do your research
Start your investigation! Examine the courses, universities, and locations available. Examine the teaching modules, research opportunities, campus culture, and employment prospects before narrowing down your choices. You may get a broader perspective by asking your friends and family or reaching out to alumni of colleges you're interested in. Use Facebook or LinkedIn to reach out to them more effectively. Also, as part of your research, don't forget to include your budget and any potential scholarships.
Step 3: Start the application process
Each university and nation will have its own admission process. Although some nations have centralized systems comparable to UCAS in the UK, many require you to apply directly to the institution.
You should visit the university's website to learn more about the application process and the admissions standards.
Many students who wish to study abroad use the services of an international admissions agency. Advisors can help you discover a university that fits your goals and lead you through the application process all the way to acceptance.
If you need to take an English exam in order to enroll in your course, study hard to achieve good results. It's critical to be grammatically accurate as well as have a broad vocabulary while taking an exam like the IELTS.
Step 4: Accept your offer letter
When your application request is approved, the institution will thoroughly review it and contact you with the results. Your application may take a few weeks (or more for advanced degrees) to be evaluated.
If your application is accepted, you will receive an offer letter and an acceptance document. Before you accept the offer, go over it with your career counselor to make sure there are no hidden stipulations.
If you are admitted to more than one course or institution, your career counselor will assist you in deciding which option is best for you.
Step 5: Manage your fundings
Traveling and higher education are both expensive, so it's logical to anticipate that studying abroad will be similarly expensive. If you're on a tight budget but have excellent grades as well as academics, there's a good possibility you'll be able to acquire a scholarship at any higher education institution. There are more than a few requirements for a candidate to even be considered for a scholarship program, let alone the arduous application and selection processes. Furthermore, these requirements differ from one university to the next.
However, if you believe you are deserving of a merit scholarship, there is no harm in applying. You can also apply for financial help – which you must repay eventually – and grants based on your financial situation and eligibility.
Step 6: Complete your visa application
The final, but most difficult, step is to apply for a Student Visa once the offer has been accepted. If your program lasts longer than four months in any nation, you will require a study permit.
The evidence of accessible cash and the physical examination are the two most crucial parts of a Visa application and acceptance. The Visa approval officer will indeed be interested in learning about your historical financial statements and liquid assets to verify that you, as a student, are competent in not just paying your education fee but also maintaining your housing, transport, and everyday living expenditures.
Visa requirements
One important thing to keep in mind while planning your study abroad journey is to be well versed with the visa requirements so that the last-minute jotting can be skipped.
Australia
Website: gostudy.com.au/australian-visa/student-visa/
Required documents:
- Confirmation of Enrolment,
- Genuine Temporary Entrant,
- Financial Requirements,
- English Proficiency Requirement,
- Australian Health Test Requirement,
- Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC),
- Proof of financial support.
Canada
Website: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees citizenship/services/study-canada/study
permit/prepare/get-documents.html
Required documents:
- Letter of acceptance from a Canadian designated educational institution.
- Proof of financial funds showing you can support yourself and your family members while you stay in Canada.
- Attested Copies of 10th,12th, and Degree certification
- Proof of Payment
- Valid Passport
- Two Passport Size Photographs
- English Proficiency Certificate
France
Website: france-visas.gouv.fr/en_US
Required documents:
- Application form dated and signed,
- France-Visas receipt,
- ID photograph,
- Passport/Travel document,
- Commitment to present proof of compulsory vaccinations at the educational institution in France,
- Proof of health insurance and civil liability,
- Promise from an organization to cover costs.
Germany
Website: india.diplo.de/in-en/service/studentvisa/2004346
Required documents:
- Passport,
- 3 Passport Pictures,
- Cover Letter,
- Letter of Admission,
- Proof of Payment,
- Proof of Language Proficiency,
- Proof of Financial means,
- Travel Health Insurance.
New Zealand
Website: immigration.govt.nz/new-zealand-visas/apply-for-a-visa/tools-and-information/forms-guides-and-checklists
Required documents:
- Electronic Confirmation of Enrolment (eCoE) certificate
- Genuine Temporary Entrant (GTE) statement
- Your English Proficiency test results
- Proof of visa application fees payment
- Health insurance (Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC))
- Verification of your criminal records
- Financial Requirements demonstrating a yearly income of up to AU$18,610
- Proof of placement at an educational institution approved by the New Zealand Qualifications Authority (NZQA)
Russia
Website: studyinrussia.ru/en/life-in-russia/arriving-in-russia/visa/
Required documents:
- Passport,
- The official invitation for entry to Russia,
- e-Application form,
- Photo,
- Overseas study plan of the applicant,
- Financial/bank statement,
- HIV-negative status certificate.
Singapore
Website: mfa.gov.sg/Overseas-Mission/Beijing/Application-for-Students-Pass
Required documents:
- Duly filled form 16 and form V36
- Proof of acceptance for admission from the institution
- A valid passport
- Completed student application form
- The receipt of the visa fee
- Proof of funds
- At least two passport size photos
- Statement of Purpose
- Academic certificates
- Health insurance (if required)
- Proof of English proficiency
- Student's bio-data
- Employment history (if applicable)
UAE
Website: government.ae/en/information-and-services/education/higher-education/student-visa
Required documents:
- Admission letter from the university,
- Passing Medical Fitness Test,
- Visa Sponsorship (either by the university itself or a parent or relative),
- Approval of the relevant General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
United Kingdom
Website: gov.uk/tier-4-general-visa/documents-you-must-provide
Required documents:
- Your valid passport.
- The Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS)
- Proof of financial resources.
- An Academic Technology Approval Scheme (ATAS) certificate.
- Criminal record certificate.
- Proof of English Language proficiency.
- Tuberculosis test results.
- For students under 18:
- Proof of parental consent
- Proof of your relationship to your parent or legal guardian
- Any additional documents are required during the application process.
United States of America
Website: travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/study/student-visa.html
Required documents:
- A passport holding a validity period of a minimum of 6 months past your period of stay
- Latest passport size photograph
- Confirmation page of DS-160
- Form i-20 (sent by the college)
- Payment receipt of SEVIS
- English proficiency exam results
- Evidence proving that you have enough funds to study and maintain your living all through the duration of your stay.
- Bank statements
- Any sponsorial financial undertaking
- Any scholarship program
- Original mark sheets and transcripts
Step 7: Arrange your accommodation and make the necessary preparations
There are two alternatives for housing – where you will reside – for the total course duration:
- In-campus student dormitories
- Off-campus flat or rooms
Students that stay on campus or with their parents and relatives will have no difficulty. Students who wish to rent an apartment must decide where they will live as soon as possible. Rent prices would undoubtedly vary from nation to country and city to metropolis. There are also additional expenses for things like electricity, internet, water, and transportation. Generally, try to stay as near to the institution as feasible to save money on transportation. Allowing your stay and costs to interfere with your studies is not a good idea.
Step 8: Book your flights in time
Make careful to plan your flights much ahead of time. When you have free time, check into the options so you can stay on top of price changes and book the greatest deals. Check your host country's admission regulations as well as luggage allowance expenses.
Ready set go!
Meet up with all of your family, relatives, and friends and relax since most people experience goosebumps, which is perfectly natural. Cherish your goodbyes, board the plane, and soak up every second of your new adventure since it may be life-changing for a select few.
Don't bother bringing all of your belongings with you. The fact is that you'll find plenty of places to get new ones, especially if you're going to stay in your new home nation for at least two or three years.
That's all there is to it! You're all set to travel overseas! Excited? You ought to be. You're about to embark on one of the most fascinating, enjoyable, rewarding, and challenging chapters of your life. And at the end of it, you'll be a lot better person. Now get out there and make some unforgettable moments!
P.S. Don't forget to take lots of photos and share some of your gourmet adventures with us. We'd be delighted to hear them.